Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred: Severe Flood Risks And Major Power Outages

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has resulted in severe flooding risks in Queensland and New South Wales, leaving approximately 240,000 homes without power. Prime Minister Albanese urges vigilance and safety compliance as conditions worsen. Local businesses are preparing for heavy rainfall, while authorities respond to illegal activities amidst the chaos. Flood predictions and challenges persist, highlighting the need for public readiness and safety measures.

Severe flood risk remains a significant concern as ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred impacts the region. Approximately 240,000 homes and businesses are currently without power as floodwaters rise and weather conditions deteriorate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stresses the need for vigilance and compliance with safety advisories given the serious nature of the storm, urging residents to avoid treacherous areas and potentially dangerous debris.

Local businesses, such as Quat Vu’s Eightysix Cafe in Brisbane, are proactively preparing for the expected heavy rains after experiencing devastation in past floods. Mr. Vu and his team have fortified their premises with sandbags and tarps, indicating their readiness for the projected impacts of the cyclone. His experience during the 2022 floods informs his preparation efforts this time around.

Queensland police seized illegal goods valued at nearly $630,000 while conducting safety patrols in the wake of Cyclone Alfred. Officers intercepted a suspect’s vehicle, uncovering significant amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, and cash alongside other disturbing items. This highlights the concerning issues authorities face amid the storm’s chaos.

Meteorologist Matt Collopy provided insights on Cyclone Alfred’s trajectory, advising that it will likely move inland over the next 12 to 24 hours. He warns of ongoing severe weather, including locally heavy rainfall and potential damaging wind gusts, stressing that the primary threat lies in anticipated intense rainfall.

With a real risk of flooding imminent, Queenslanders remain on high alert. Premier David Crisafulli reassures residents that while challenges are ongoing, their resilience is well-documented. He urges the public to prepare for severe conditions, which include flash flooding and rapidly rising creeks as heavy rains persist.

The power outage crisis is becoming increasingly severe, with 286,000 homes impacted across Queensland and New South Wales. Conditions remain hazardous for repair crews, yet significant preparation efforts are underway to ensure readiness for when it is safe to commence restoration activities. Power companies emphasize their dedication to resolving the crisis as swiftly and safely as possible.

In summary, ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has led to severe flooding concerns across Queensland and New South Wales, with hundreds of thousands left without power. Government officials and local businesses are actively preparing for the storm’s impact, and there is a strong emphasis on public safety. The risks of flooding and dangerous weather conditions necessitate ongoing vigilance among the residents, while authorities mobilize resources to address the aftermath of the cyclone.

Original Source: thenightly.com.au